I'd just like to clarify something: I'm thinking of saving up for the Z4 upgrade. However in the meantime, i was looking to buy a FAT Kat trigger pedal on ebay. But, if i had the Z4 upgrade on my Zendrum, would there no longer be a need to get this specific kick trigger? Would something cheaper and more easy to obtain work aswell/almost aswell? Please could you elaborate on what the differences would be, as i've found one on ebay but it will cost quite a lot as it's in the USA, and that money would probably be better spent going towards the Z4 fund if i could get a cheaper kick trigger to work nearly aswell. Also if this is the case, would anyone kindly suggest one (a kick trigger pedal) that would suit my needs ( not too expesnive) ?

Can't answer the first part of your post, but about recommended BD triggers:

I hear you on cost and availability, but I still recommend the FAT Kat to you. I have used lots of different products over the years and I still think that's the one to get.

For other options: I also really like my Pintech ConcertCast 10" mesh-head drum... tensioned loose enough, it feels like a real bass drum. But it's big and requires a pedal too, so it's much more gear to schlep for virtually the same results. Roland's KD-7 might be a good balance: lots smaller than an electronic drum, but still has regular pedal feel and rebound (well, more than the FAT anyway). Good part about the KD-7: cheap cheap cheap! I bought one for one of my students on eBay last month for $49.

If you play standing up, the FAT pedal plays lower to the ground. That means that your leg won't cramp up. I've tried all of them at there is a big difference. Another thing that I have noticed is speed. For what ever reason, these pedals just play faster for me.

With the new Z4 being able to work with CC information, I would look for the HAT as well. It is unfortunate that they are not easy to get. We all may need to find some alternatives, but I for one will be looking for more.

Did you guys know that the HAT Kat pedal has a trigger out, and can be used like a FAT Kat? Cool feature! Also, with a 16" strip of female velcro wrapped around the footboard and hooked to the male velcro on the bottom of the baseplate, they pack up very nicely and safely.

Personally, I do not prefer the HAT Kat as a HH pedal... there's a funny issue with it closing the HH (and playing the chick sound) about 1/2" before the pedal physically hits bottom. (See alt mode forums for more info on it). Therefore, I use my HAT Kat as a second bass drum pedal. For hi-hat control, I like the Roland pedals better- FD-7 is still my fave. I have read that the Alternate Mode version of Hart Dynamics' pedal is fantastic, but I have not personally tried one.

Does anyone (John?) know why the Kat pedals are so hard to get lately? They still show up as available on alternatemode.com, but if you click on them, it says they are out of stock indefinitely. Some sort of supplier/manufacturer issue? Or are they discontinued?

Jer

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HostileReality

I don't reallly understand hi hat pedals properly yet- If one was to use one with the new Z4 and a BFD2 hi-hat, does that mean that you would be able to trigger all the articulations such as heel splash, half open, and all/most others, using your foot to change which articulation is triggered when you hit the zendrum pad?

Yes, all articulations supported, just as you surmised. Chick, splash, and variable cym tension: closed, 1/4 open, 1/2, 3/4, and fully open. I think the FD-8 is more compact in size, but not as good as the 7: the FD-7 has a pedal height adjustment (which the 8 doesn't have) and it also has spring tension adjustment... don't know if the 8 has that or not. Of course, these are both physical adjustments that do not affect the electronic performance. My guess is that they are electronically identical (not certain...)